Tyrell Malacia had an unwanted record at the World Cup. He was the only one of the 15 Manchester United players who went to the tournament not to play a single minute.
Malacia was entirely overlooked by former United boss Louis van Gaal during Netherlands’ run to the quarter-finals.
On one hand this meant the left-back was fresh, but there may have been questions over his match sharpness. Erik ten Hag didn’t have any worries, selecting the Dutchman as a starter against Burnley.
This proved to be a shrewd decision as United kept a clean sheet in the 2-0 win, with Christian Eriksen and Marcus Rashford on the scoresheet.
READ: United Player Ratings v Burnley
Malacia makes successful return
Brandon Williams would have hoped for a United opportunity but Malacia was simply a safer pair of hands. The Dutch left-back showed his quality last night.
Malacia did not have a spectacular assist like Aaron Wan-Bissaka, but he did have a very solid defensive performance, keeping Burnley attacks to a minimum.
The left-back was very effective in possession, completing 33 of 35 passes (94 per cent), playing 85 minutes.
These were not all short passes either, Malacia made three of three long balls.
He won his defensive battles too, winning three of four tackles, and four of five ground duels.
Malacia briefly shifted over to right-back too, showing a versatility he has demonstrated early on his career. It’s a good option to have.
The 23-year-old is just getting started after making the move from Feyenoord in the summer, and has had a mixed time at United so far.
He began excellently, winning the left-back spot from Luke Shaw, before the England defender reclaimed his spot.
Last night it was important for him to lay down a marker and play well, and he will feel he did so. Erik ten Hag has a tough decision to make at the position when the Premier League returns.
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